OFFERINGS
OFFERINGS
Embedded Files
The Heart Sutra: shown here is a Chinese copy from the time of Xuanzang (c. 602–664), who is attributed as the original Chinese translator of The Heart Sutra. The versions we use to chant in our regular weekly practice are in Japanese, Maka Hannya Haramita Shin Gyo, and also in English. All practice materials are available on our RESOURCES page and we have printed chant books for practice.
Regular Sittings and Events
Regular Sittings and Events
Eastern Sun Sangha offers 2 weekly sessions of Rinzai Zen meditation. Other practices include Buddhist mantra chanting and Dharma study. Occasionally we host social events and retreats which will be announced through our newsletter and social media channels.
See the full calendar of community event listings from our group and affiliated programs.
WEDNESDAYS 7-8pm - Evening Zazen Meditation
WEDNESDAYS 7-8pm - Evening Zazen Meditation
The practice unfolds as follows:
a short tea ceremony
a 20-25 minute sitting meditation (on a cushion or chair)
a 5-10 minute walking meditation
another 20-25 minute sitting meditation
we usually finish with a brief informal chat about practice and whatever else comes up, if people are interested.
SATURDAYS 10am-12pm - Morning Chants and Zazen Meditation
SATURDAYS 10am-12pm - Morning Chants and Zazen Meditation
The practice unfolds as follows:
a short tea ceremony
a group chanting of the Heart Sutra, first in Japanese, then English (texts are provided)
a 20-25 minute sitting meditation (on a cushion or chair)
a 5-10 minute walking meditation
another 20-25 minute sitting meditation
another 5-10 minute walking meditation
a final 20-25 minute sitting meditation
a group chanting of Eight Verses of Training the Mind (text is provided)
we usually finish with a brief informal chat about practice and whatever else comes up, if people are interested.
Note: One Saturday each month there is a shorter practice followed by our Dharma Dialogue series, beginning with the first on June 21, 2025.
MANTRA and MUSIC
MANTRA and MUSIC
Usually every second Monday evening from 7-8:30pm, subject to rescheduling. This is a small collaborative music group practicing Buddhist mantras from different traditions. Please contact us for further information about this program and how to participate. easternsunsangha@gmail.com
DHARMA STUDY and DISCUSSIONS
DHARMA STUDY and DISCUSSIONS
Our new Dharma Dialogue series happens one Saturday each month after the morning practice starting June 21, 2025. The regular practice will be abbreviated to two sitting meditations and one walking meditation (1 hour vs. the usual 2 hours sitting and walking), with the Dharma Dialogue portion starting around 11am. Please see the registration link for more information.
Sangha Membership
Sangha Membership
Membership with Eastern Sun Sangha is open to anyone, regardless of spiritual background or beliefs. Although members are not required to adhere to Buddhist teachings, it's important to note that this group is not a secular mindfulness practice. It is a Zen group that incorporates other Buddhist traditions, and its aims are directed toward a spiritual awakening through formal practice and study.
The Sangha members support each other in this effort, practice together when possible, and host occasional discussions, retreats and social events.
Group membership benefits include a private chat group with an engaged spiritual community, invitations to our events, member pricing where applicable, and access to resources from the library.
Please see the next section for more information about events.
Open Spaces Events
Open Spaces Events
Eastern Sun Sangha supports mindful, inclusive and accessible events at our practice location, The Pearl, in Downtown St. John's, and other local venues. In addition to our regular weekly practices, we will be hosting more events in 2025 including retreats and socials. All listings will be shared on Open Spaces Events and in our newsletter. Sangha membership provides benefits with other Open Spaces Events and associated groups, such as intro guest passes, free events, invitation only and special ticket pricing.
Open Spaces currently includes events and offerings from Eastern Sun Sangha, Heart Beats Conscious Dance, Stand Up Comedy NL, and The Pearl Market.
Please see the calendar at the link below for all events including meditation, dance, music, and socials.
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